The CISF Coastal Cyclothon, an initiative to promote coastal security and environmental awareness, reached Chandipur, Odisha, on March 9, 2025, marking a significant milestone in its 6,553 km journey along India’s coastline.
The expedition, flagged off from Bakkhali Beach, West Bengal, has been drawing enthusiastic responses from local communities, officials, and security agencies as it moves southward.
The East Coast team, comprising 50 cyclists, including 8 women, is covering a total distance of 2,778 km, traversing through West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. Their journey will conclude at the Swami Vivekananda Memorial in Kanyakumari on March 31, 2025. Along the way, they are engaging with fishermen, local youth, and industry representatives, spreading awareness about coastal safety and national security. Their journey has been a testament to determination and teamwork, reinforcing CISF’s commitment to protecting India’s shores.
As the CISF cyclists arrived in Chandipur, they were greeted with a grand reception by the local community, school students, and dignitaries. The town, known for its unique receding sea waters and its role as a defense testing site, hosted a cultural event showcasing Odisha’s rich heritage. Folk performances, traditional dances, and patriotic songs added to the excitement as residents gathered to honor the cyclists and their mission.
On March 10, 2025, the team was officially flagged off from Chandipur in an event attended by Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, DIG ER Balasore, Shri Khushwant Singh, IFS, DFO Balasore, and Shri Satyabeer Singh Aswal, Comdt CISF. Addressing the gathering, officials emphasized the importance of coastal vigilance, environmental conservation, and community participation in strengthening national security.
The cyclists are now heading towards Kaithkola, covering a distance of 98 km. Along the way, they will engage with fishermen, local youth, and community representatives, spreading awareness about coastal safety, disaster preparedness, and the importance of maintaining a secure maritime ecosystem.
The CISF Coastal Cyclothon, which was inaugurated on March 7, 2025, by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, aims to sensitize coastal communities and highlight the critical role of CISF in safeguarding India’s maritime infrastructure. With two teams riding from the western and eastern coasts, the expedition is traversing 11 states, covering vital coastal hubs and industrial zones.This rally welcomes civilian participation, both physically and virtually. The public isrequested to visit www.cisfcyclothon.com for details, updates, and participationopportunities. This event aims to deepen ties between CISF and coastal communities,bolstering India’s maritime security and resilience.
As the team advances further into Odisha and beyond, their message remains clear: “Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat”—a secure coast ensures a prosperous India. The cyclothon is not only a physical endurance challenge but also a symbol of unity, resilience, and national pride, reinforcing the shared responsibility of coastal security and environmental sustainability.
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